Lead Poisoning in Oregon

Alarming Levels of Lead Found in Certain Traditional Cosmetics and Turmeric

December 12, 2019

Health officials are warning families to avoid dangerous products and get kids tested

Alarming levels of lead have been found in traditional cosmetics used in Hindu and Muslim religious practices and South and Southeast Asian cultures. High lead levels have also been found in the spice turmeric, particularly in smaller batches brought in from overseas.

Frequently Asked Questions: Lead in Traditional Cosmetics and Turmeric

Infographics

Lead poisoning prevention tips

Lead poisoning is a significant environmental health problem.

Laws and regulations are in place to protect people; however lead poisoning is still a risk for many Oregonians, especially children. The Lead Poisoning Prevention Program enforces state regulations, oversees professional training and certification, and responds to concerns about lead and its effect on public health.

NEW: EPA Region 10’s Public Listening Session on the Draft EPA Lead Strategy

EPA hosted a virtual public comment session on Tues. Feb. 8th to gather input on their national draft Strategy to Reduce Lead Exposures and Disparities in U.S. Communities. The meeting recording and additional details about the strategy can be found here.

Lead Poisoning and Exposure

Training and Certification

Laws and Regulations

Partners and Providers

News

EPA Affirms Building Managers Responsible for Lead-Based Paint Safety Requirements When Performing Renovations

1/21/2022 Press Release announcing changes affecting property management companies that manage pre-1978 housing or properties and contract renovations that could disturb lead-based paint.

CDC: Update of the Blood Lead Reference Value, 2021

The CDC has updated the BLRV to 3.5 ug/dl: Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR) October 29, 2021. The current definition of "lead poisoning" in Oregon is still 5 ug/dl, and child cases at this level should be investigated per OHA Disease Guidelines.

FDA Safety Warning and Recalls for LeadCare Analyzers

February 23, 2022 Update: Magellan Diagnostics has announced that it resumed manufacturing and distribution of their LeadCare II test kits.
CDC Health Alert Network: Expansion of Recall of LeadCare Blood Lead Tests Due to Risk of Falsely Low Results October 14, 2021 update
Expanded Urgent Medical Device Recall for LeadCare II analyzers from Magellan Diagnostics: August 30, 2021 update
U.S. FDA Statement from ongoing investigation into lead testing results using venous blood on Lead Care II analyzers: March 22, 2018 update
Frequently asked questions about the 2018 safety warning (pdf)

Senate Bill 64 Amends Lead-Based Paint ORS 431A.358

Senate Bill 64 amends Oregon Revised Statute (ORS) 431A.358 to align with the Code of Federal Regulations regarding lead-based paint requirements, including the removal of language that allowed uncertified individuals to perform lead-based paint activities under the supervision of certified individuals. This change affects the work of Risk Assessors, Inspectors, and Abatement Workers and Supervisors. It does not affect Renovation. Uncertified renovators can still perform work if they receive RRP-rule required on-the-job training and are directed by a Certified Renovator.

Law Related to Demolition of Residences with Lead-Based Paint

Senate Bill 871 (2017) allows any city in Oregon to establish a program by ordinance that requires individuals and contractors to follow certain best practices when demolishing pre-1978 residences.
The bill also requires contractors to submit proof of holding one of four certifications as defined in OAR333-068.
Best Practices (pdf)
Frequently Asked Questions (pdf)

Alerts and Recalls

Find links to current lead poisoning alerts and product recalls

Reducing Lead in School Drinking Water

OAR 333-061-0400, "Reducing lead in school drinking water"
Resources for schools, including EPA's 3Ts guidance
Visit OHA's Healthy School Facilities website to learn about Oregon's work to reduce harmful contaminants in schools and child care facilities.

Oregon Data

Resources

Report unsafe work practices

The Oregon Construction Contractors Board licenses "Lead Safe" contractors for home renovation, repair or painting.

CCB Lead Safe Contractors

Program Contacts